AFC TOTTON boss Louis Langdown has filled the club’s goal scoring vacancy – and how!

Having seen Tony Lee join Weymouth and Nathaniel Sherborne retire, the Stags have swooped for one of the area’s most feared marksmen Justin Bennett.

After establishing himself as Gosport Borough’s all-time leading scorer, the prolific Bennett netted 42 goals for Salisbury in the Evo-Stik South West two seasons ago.

He left the Ray Mac last summer to sign for National League South outfit Oxford City, but an anterior cruciate ligament injury robbed him of a full season.

It’s not the first time Bennett has played for Totton. He had a spell on loan at the old Testwood Park in 2008/09 during Stuart Ritchie’s days in charge.

Speaking of his delight at joining the club, Bennett said: “I’m really excited to sign for AFC Totton. It’s obvious to all that they are a club going in the right direction and that’s what made me want to be part of it.

“I’m close friends with Wildey (assistant manager Adam Wilde) and look forward to sharing the changing room with him again.

“And with Louis’s background (in sports science), he will be a great help in getting me back on the pitch.

“I can’t wait to get going on June 28 and meet the other lads. I’m hopeful we can all have a successful season.”

Langdown said: “Justin is a proven goalscorer and brings the experience we as a club promised to add to our very young side.

"Bringing Justin here was not all about goals, he offers leadership and know-how that everyone in team will benefit from.

“Adam knows Justin as a character and you can see he still has the enthusiasm and excitement to play football.

“Of course he was offered plenty of better offers as a man of his pedigree demands, but often you get a feel for something and someone and we seem a perfect fit."

Totton, meanwhile, has announced the departure of defender Sam Roberts who is off to get regular first-team action elsewhere.

“We send our thanks to Sam and cannot speak highly enough of this young man,” said Langdown.

“His first-team opportunities were limited at The Testwood Community Stadium, but when he was called upon to step into the side he never let anyone down.”